- January 4, 2026
- Posted by: admin
- Category: blog
Canada has officially closed its Start-Up Visa Program as of January 1, 2026, marking a major shift in how entrepreneur immigrants can pursue permanent residence in the country.
The Start-Up Visa was long considered a premier pathway for foreign founders wishing to build innovative businesses in Canada and obtain Canadian permanent residency. With the federal program now paused, entrepreneurs must pivot to alternative immigration strategies while they await a new targeted pilot program promised later in 2026.
Why the Start-Up Visa Program Was Closed
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that it would stop accepting new Start-Up Visa applications after December 31, 2025, and will no longer issue new optional SUV work permits for overseas founders.
An exception applies only to applicants who already obtained a valid commitment certificate from a designated investor group, business incubator, or venture capital fund in 2025. These entrepreneurs must submit their full permanent residency application by June 30, 2026.
The closure is part of Canada’s broader strategy to reset federal business immigration streams, reduce backlogs, and introduce a new entrepreneur pilot program better aligned with economic priorities under the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan.
Entrepreneur Immigration Options After the SUV Closure
Although the Start-Up Visa is no longer an entry point for most applicants, there are several strong alternatives for business-minded immigrants who want to move to Canada.
1. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Entrepreneur Streams
One of the most important alternatives to the Start-Up Visa is the entrepreneur and business streams offered by Canadian provinces and territories under the Provincial Nominee Program. Many provinces actively recruit experienced business owners or investors with specific investment and net worth requirements.
Some key options include:
- Alberta: Multiple streams including Graduate Entrepreneur, Rural Entrepreneur, and Farm Stream.
- British Columbia: Base and Regional Entrepreneur streams, plus a Strategic Projects option for foreign corporations.
- Manitoba: Business Investor and International Student Entrepreneur streams.
- Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, New Brunswick: Business and graduate entrepreneur pathways.
- Prince Edward Island, Yukon, Northwest Territories: Various business streams tailored to regional economic needs.
Each PNP entrepreneur stream requires a business proposal, investment capital, and active involvement in operating the enterprise in Canada. Provincial nomination through these programs is a key step toward permanent residency.
2. C-11 Entrepreneur Work Permit (TR to PR Pathway)
Another alternative for foreign entrepreneurs is the C-11 work permit, also known as the “significant benefit permit.” This permit allows entrepreneurs to enter Canada to start or operate a business without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Once in Canada, business owners can work full-time building their company and later pursue permanent residency through a PNP stream or other immigration categories that accept Canadian work experience.
This approach is suitable for founders who want to work in Canada first and build a track record before applying for permanent residency.
3. Quebec Business Immigration Options
Quebec operates its own immigration system independent of most federal business streams. Entrepreneurs interested in living in Quebec may explore the Quebec Investor Program, Quebec Entrepreneur Program, or the Self-Employed Worker options. These pathways provide a distinct route to permanent residency for business owners targeting the province.
Preparing for the New Entrepreneur Pilot Program
Although details are still forthcoming, the Canadian government plans to launch a new targeted entrepreneur pilot sometime in 2026. This future program aims to attract high-potential business founders while managing immigration levels effectively.
Entrepreneurs can stay ahead by monitoring updates from the Canadian government, consulting licensed immigration professionals, and exploring PNP or C-11 options while awaiting the new federal pilot.
Conclusion
The closure of the Start-Up Visa Program may seem like a setback, but Canada’s entrepreneurial immigration landscape remains full of opportunities. Whether through provincial business streams, the C-11 work permit, or Quebec’s programs, determined founders still have credible paths to build a business and secure Canadian permanent residency.
Sun Consulting Pvt. Ltd can help you navigate these options with clarity and confidence to find the pathway best suited to your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I still apply for the Start-Up Visa in 2026?
No, the Start-Up Visa program has been closed as of January 1, 2026. Only applicants with a valid commitment certificate issued in 2025 may submit their permanent residency application by June 30, 2026.
2. What is the best alternative to the Start-Up Visa?
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) entrepreneur streams and the C-11 Entrepreneur Work Permit are the most viable alternatives. Quebec also offers independent business immigration options.
3. Do I need to invest money to qualify for these programs?
Yes, most entrepreneur streams require an investment and active participation in running a business in Canada. The exact requirements vary by province and program.
4. Can I work in Canada while applying for permanent residency as an entrepreneur?
Yes, certain programs like the C-11 work permit allow you to operate your business and work in Canada while preparing your PR application.
5. When will the new federal entrepreneur pilot program start?
The Canadian government plans to launch a new entrepreneur pilot sometime in 2026, but exact dates and details are yet to be announced.
